Want to own an old firehouse?

April 15, 2013

A historic former Chicago Fire Department station is set to hit the market today, as part of a class of ornate and romantic early 20th century firehouses being put up for sale by the city.

A request for proposals for the firehouse at 5714 N. Ridge Ave. is expected to be issued today, according to spokesman Peter Strazzabosco of the Department of Housing and Economic Development, the city agency in charge of selling the property. The site has been appraised at $350,000, he said.

“That will be the target price,” Strazzabosco said. “But that doesn’t mean people will have to bid [that price].”

He said bidders also have to submit a redevelopment plan for the building and proposed uses would have to be consistent with surrounding zoning.

Built in 1929, the elegant, neo-classical brick building cuts a handsome figure with its terra cotta quoins and dentils. The building housed Engine Company 59, Truck 47 until 2008 when firefighters stationed there moved to a new facility at 6030 N Clark St.

The building is among11 historic firehouses that were given landmark status in 2003. Many of these structures and other city-owned properties are being advertised for sale. You can see a partial list here on the city's website.